Aside from the poorest neighbourhoods in Santo Domingo and Santiago, the Dominican Republic is a relatively safe place - though women travelling solo need to stay on their guard even here. In cities, take the same precautions that you would anywhere else: don't flaunt your wealth with fat rolls of pesos, leave your expensive jewellery at home and avoid walking alone late at night.

Corruption is rife throughout the police force ; many officers do little besides collecting small bribes. Nevertheless, you shouldn't give an officer a bribe unless he first asks, albeit rather obliquely; if he does ask, you're probably best off complying, provided he doesn't ask for more than RD$20 or RD$30. The good news for you is that police are routinely instructed not to ask bribes of foreigners, and their only other focus is crime against tourists , which they are adamant about quashing; dial 911 in case of an emergency.

Penalties for drug use and possession are extraordinarily stiff, and Dominican prisons are notorious. Drug possession is the one crime you won't be able to bribe your way out of; whatever you do, don't carry any with you into the country.

Though violent attacks against women travellers are rare, many women find that the constant barrage of hisses, hoots and comments comes close to spoiling their vacation. Whatever you do, don't be afraid to seem rude; even the mildest polite response will be considered an indication of serious interest. Chances of trouble depend to an extent on where you are. Avoid walking alone on city streets late at night and you'll circumvent much of the risk; it's also a good idea to opt for private taxis over motoconchos and guaguas after dark.